The Dr. B.M. Arora Memorial Award for “Veterinary Excellence in Zoo Animal Health,” honors the legacy of one of India’s most distinguished wildlife veterinarians and academicians.
Born on August 15, 1942, Dr. Bal Mukund Arora dedicated over five decades of his life to advancing the fields of wildlife health and conservation. A visionary leader, Dr. Arora pioneered numerous initiatives, including the establishment of India’s first National Diploma in Zoo & Wildlife Management at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, in 1995. As the Director of the National Zoological Park, New Delhi, and Head of the Centre for Wildlife Conservation at IVRI, he made significant contributions to captive wildlife healthcare, research, and management.
Dr. Arora’s illustrious career includes serving on esteemed national and international platforms such as IUCN’s Species Survival Commission and the Central Zoo Authority. His founding of the Association of Indian Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians in 1991 cemented his legacy as a trailblazer in zoo and wildlife veterinary sciences. With over 100 research publications and 10 books, his work on wildlife breeding, nutrition, disease surveillance, and health monitoring continues to inspire generations of veterinarians and conservationists.
This award is a tribute to Dr. Arora’s tireless commitment to wildlife research, education, and conservation, and it aims to recognize exemplary contributions in zoo animal health and welfare.